Biceps tendon rupture

What it means

Discontinuity of the biceps tendon as observed by ultrasound or magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.

Patients suffering from biceps tendon rupture may complain of sudden sharp pain in the elbow or shoulder, depending on the site of the rupture. Usually, there is a history of sudden eccentric force to a flexed elbow. They may feel an audible pop in the affected arm at the time of the injury. Pain can persist for weeks to months.

Rare diseases that can present with this1

The range is how often this sign appears among people diagnosed with each disease — it is not a probability of having any of them. Many of these signs also occur in common, non-rare conditions. A sign on this page is a conversation to have with a clinician, not a conclusion.

Part of the broader category

Also called: Biceps tendon tear